Theming

What Are Preprocess Functions? for Drupal 8, 9, and 10

Preprocess functions allow Drupal themes to manipulate the variables that are used in Twig template files by using PHP functions to preprocess data before it is exposed to each template. All of the dynamic content available to theme developers within a Twig template file is exposed through a preprocess function. Understanding how preprocess functions work, and the role they play, is important for both module developers and theme developers.

In this tutorial we'll learn:

  • What preprocess functions are and how they work
  • The use case for preprocess functions
  • The order of execution for preprocess functions

By the end of this tutorial you should be able to explain what preprocess functions are and the role they play in a Drupal theme.

Frontend Theming